Chest pain can have numerous causes, ranging from mild, non-threatening issues to serious, life-threatening conditions. Here's an overview of the main reasons for chest pain categorized by their origin:
- Heart-Related Causes (Cardiac)
These causes are often serious and require immediate attention.
Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction):
Occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often due to a blood clot.
Symptoms: Intense chest pain or pressure, radiating to the arms, neck, jaw, or back, accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, and nausea.
Angina:
Caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to narrowed arteries (coronary artery disease).
Symptoms: Chest discomfort triggered by physical activity or stress, relieved by rest.
Pericarditis:
Inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart.
Symptoms: Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with breathing or lying down.
Aortic Dissection:
A tear in the aorta's inner layer.
Symptoms: Sudden, severe, tearing pain in the chest or upper back.
Arrhythmias:
Irregular heart rhythms causing chest discomfort.
- Lung-Related Causes (Pulmonary)
Issues with the lungs or airways can also cause chest pain.
Pulmonary Embolism (PE):
A blood clot blocking an artery in the lungs.
Symptoms: Sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and coughing (possibly with blood).
Pneumonia or Bronchitis:
Infection or inflammation of the lungs or airways.
Symptoms: Chest pain that worsens with coughing or breathing, fever, and fatigue.
Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung):
Air leaking into the space between the lung and chest wall.
Symptoms: Sudden, sharp chest pain and difficulty breathing.
Pleuritis (Pleurisy):
Inflammation of the lung's lining.
Symptoms: Pain worsens with deep breaths or coughing.
- Gastrointestinal Causes
Chest pain may also stem from the digestive system.
Acid Reflux (GERD):
Stomach acid backs up into the esophagus.
Symptoms: Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), regurgitation, or sour taste.
Esophageal Spasms:
Muscle contractions in the esophagus.
Symptoms: Severe, sharp chest pain similar to a heart attack.
Hiatal Hernia:
Part of the stomach pushes into the chest through the diaphragm.
Symptoms: Chest pain, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing.
Gallbladder Disease:
Gallstones or inflammation causing referred pain to the chest.
- Musculoskeletal Causes
Chest pain may originate from the muscles, bones, or connective tissues.
Costochondritis:
Inflammation of the cartilage connecting ribs to the breastbone.
Symptoms: Sharp or aching pain that worsens with touch or movement.
Muscle Strain:
Overuse or injury of chest muscles.
Symptoms: Pain aggravated by movement or pressure.
Rib Fractures or Injury:
Symptoms: Localized pain, especially with breathing or coughing.
- Anxiety and Panic Disorders
Panic Attacks:
Intense fear or anxiety causing chest tightness or pain.
Symptoms: Rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, and sweating.
Stress-Induced Chest Pain:
Resulting from physical tension or hyperventilation.
- Other Causes
Shingles:
A viral infection affecting nerve roots.
Symptoms: Painful rash and localized burning or sharp chest pain.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome:
Compression of nerves or blood vessels in the chest area.
Symptoms: Pain, tingling, or numbness in the chest, arm, or shoulder.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Chest pain may indicate a serious condition. Call emergency services if you experience:
Sudden, severe, or crushing pain.
Pain radiating to the arms, neck, jaw, or back.
Accompanied by difficulty breathing, fainting, nausea, or sweating.
Symptoms of a heart attack, pulmonary embolism, or aortic dissection.
Understanding the potential causes of chest pain and seeking prompt medical evaluation can be lifesaving. Always err on the side of caution if you're unsure about the severity of your symptoms.